Scared! But it'll all work out.

[bethf]

I just wanted to share this: My insurance is changing to a plan that covers much less and has a high deductible and my infusion drug Rituxan is super expensive - and I'm trying to get my treatment in before the end of the calendar year.

The problem: Bronchitis. I came down with it a few days before my scheduled treatment, and you can't take the infusion when you have an infection. I need two infusions - two weeks apart - and now I'm scheduled for Dec. 15 and Dec. 30 - the last business day of the year.

If I have any symptoms on Dec. 15, I can't take the treatment. I still have some coughing and some colorful phlegm. But I feel like I'll be well enough by the 15th.

Most of the people who participate in this group are in the UK, is that right? So this whole insurance thing might be somewhat unfamiliar. But it's a big deal for me to get treated before Jan. 1.

I'm just sort of venting, and maybe also asking for y'all to keep your fingers crossed for me. Thanks so much!

Beth

[PeteC]

Well, first thing that springs to mind is ... if the insurance you have is about to change resulting in it not covering you for your needs ... change it

Most people on this site are Brits .. so medical procedures differ ... BUT, in reference to your line "I'm just venting" ... your in good company as most members here are ladies ...and I know how ladies like to vent

[helixhelix]

Now, now Pete - we are merely expressive but always keen to encourage our male RA-ers to share thoughts too!

And yes Beth I think there are a lot of Brits on the site. I don't really understand the US system, but it does sound quite stressful. Can you change from company to company easily, and is there competition between them? Or do they only want to encourage healthy people to join who are cheap to care for?

But at least it sounds as if you can get the more modern drugs. Here things are effectively rationed, so for example you can't get biologics until you've tried and failed at at least three DMARDS. Which I find very frustrating as lots of people say that the newer drugs are good and with fewer side effects.

Anyway, I'll cross every joint that is flexible enough - good luck and look after yourself before the 15th. Polly

[Hidden]

Cant even begin to cross fingers for you just now as RA as 'em good and proper, but I will volunteer to be in your pocket in spirit when you get your infusions - willing the bronchitis to recede for you so you can have them this side of 2011.

I think the American system must be very scary for sufferers of chronic diseases - can't imagine what it must be like having to think about insurance under these circumstances. Makes me realise how lucky we Brits are really - although the NHS has many limitations because of pressure on budgets. Tilda x

[Hidden]

I hope ypou have some anti biotics for that coloured phlegm? other wise it wont resolve before Dec 15TH X

[Hidden]

I'm sending you positive, healing thoughts and a beam of light to lift your heart:-} I've lived in the States twice, once in the 7O's and again in the 8O's and have travelled back and forth a lot when my Dad worked there, so I'm familiar with the insurance system there. As a child I was covered by my Dad's insurance but after that was on my own and having a pre-existing condition (kidney disease} my payments and exclusions were high.

I last went to New York 6 years ago and the only UK Insurance company who would cover me charged a £65O premium to cover me for 1 month!

As Summer says get some antibiotics for that infection.

Take good care of yourself and try not to worry as that affects your immune response.

Cece x

[bethf]

Thanks everybody! And it's funny that I didn't even realize I was asking a group of fellow RA patients to cross fingers. Ha! Thank you all for the good wishes, and yes, I am in the last couple days of my second round of antibiotics.

I'm sure every nation's got some drawbacks with their healthcare systems. I am very fortunate to be insured by my husband's employer. I cannot afford to buy a better private insurance than the company offers. Many - a huge number of people here dont have insurance at all.

I'm feeling so much better that I'm almost sure I will be well enough on 12/15. Thanks so much for the much-needed encouragement!

Beth

[Tinwoman2]

Yes, the US insurance system does leave a lot to be desired, They would charge me more if they even hear the word arthritis, & most won't cover pre-existing conditions for a year. Others, don't like some of my meds & deny me coverage outright. I have no insurance right now, and have had to cancel a dentist appt and an appt so that I could get more meds for my allergies.

I am going to try once again to find some reasonable insurance; I don't know how I'll afford it though, disability doesn't pay much.

Good luck kicking the infection Beth, so you can get your infusions.

Christine

[Hidden]

Okie Dokie Beth, I'm assuming you might be from the South? I'm a Northern Ohioan, Y'all

If you have taken an antibiotic for the bronchitis, you should be OK to go on the 15th and 30th. In fact, I have been permitted to take mine when I have been on an antibiotic, since it is being treated. Once it was for an infected spider bite, or allergic reaction to a spider bite on my big toe. Acquired wearing sandals in the yard. You should be good to go. Or, can you call and ask your Rheumatologist if OK since you were treated with antibiotic for the bronchitis? Unless, of course, you weren't given an antibiotic. My Rheumy wants me to have antibiotics any time for anything, to prevent sepsis, due to lowered immune system. Let us know what you find out. XX Loret